Almost all relationships experience
a certain level of difficulties. However, when one of the partners has a psychiatric disorder, such as an
anxiety disorder, the relationship will have new challenges, and their previous
problems can be worsened.
Each has shown that people suffering
from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) were more likely to see their
relationship as unhealthy. Additionally, they reported that they were at least twice
as likely to experience a significant relationship problem, including frequent
arguments on a regular basis, and lack of intimacy with their partner. The
implication here is that these findings may be true for couples with other
anxiety disorders as well.
Challenges
for Couples With Anxiety Disorders
Because having an anxiety disorder
is typically associated with excessive personal distress, it is equally stressful
for their partners. It is common for the spouse of someone suffering from
anxiety to take in more responsibility in the relationship with things such as finances,
household chores, and parenting. When this happens, the partner of the anxiety sufferer
can become codependent much in the same way as someone living with an alcoholic.
Resentment can build for both parties as they become more isolated in the
relationship.
Because anxiety sufferers often become
disabled with anxiety, household routines are typically disrupted and chores
tend to fall on other people in the house. The other partner often must take on
additional responsibilities such as shopping, finances, and parenting they can
become overwhelmed. Some people with anxiety disorders find it difficult to get
or keep a job, which can cause serious resentment in a marriage. If the other
partner suddenly becomes the sole breadwinner, even briefly, this can set up an
imbalance in the relationship.
Intimacy is often impacted in
marriage with anxiety disorders. People suffering from an anxiety disorder tend
to avoid intimacy and other activities that can foster intimacy, such as social
outings. This can make both partners feel isolated. Additionally, both partners
may feel depressed and frightened about the future of the relationship. This
can lead to more resentment towards each other. The partner with the anxiety
disorder may actually resent the other partner for pushing them to get well.
Marriage Counseling Can Help
Although these challenges may seem
daunting, they can be helped with individual psychotherapy and marriage
counseling. It is important to note that with these interventions, people with
anxiety disorders and their partners can have successful marriage, thriving careers,
and busy social lives.
For more information on how anxiety
disorder can affect a relationship, visit http://sanjoseanxietycounseling.net.or https://onlinetherapywell.com.
